Exotic cat taken to sanctuary after escape in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A large exotic cat that escaped its home and was later captured by the Department of Fish and Wildlife is now living at a local wildlife sanctuary.

The cat jumped from the owner’s apartment balcony and into a neighbor’s yard. It was loose for several days before being captured. 

Multnomah County Animal Services said the cat is actually a caracat, a hybrid between a caracal and domestic cat. Caracats are illegal to own. 

Officials said the owner voluntarily turned the cat over to Wildcat Ridge Sanctuary in Scotts Mills. 

Caracals are native to Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and India, not the Pacific Northwest. The Oregon Zoo also owns caracals and has successfully bred them.